BLOOMS & STITCHES

Sr. Adrianne HC

St. Alex Tailoring Centre, run by the Sisters of the Handmaids of Christ under the guidance of Government Instructor Sr. Gloria Estibeiro, has become a vibrant hub for fashion skills and creative learning. Among its many offerings, the recently introduced flower-making course has captured the imagination of many. Passersby pause to admire the delicate blooms crafted by students whose enthusiasm and skill are clearly evident.Sr. Gloria brings to the classroom both technical know-how and a gentle, encouraging spirit. She teaches students to identify flowers by name, petal shape, and colour, and she introduces them to a wide range of materials now available in the market. Mindful of each student’s strengths and weaknesses, she gives special attention to those who need extra help, often arriving early and staying late to guide them. Her patient mentorship not only fosters artistic ability but also nurtures discipline, perseverance, and confidence; qualities essential for a successful life.On special occasions—reopening day, exhibitions, and diploma ceremonies, the Centre comes alive. Guests of honour, benefactors, families, and friends gather to celebrate. Every student takes part, from announcers and demonstrators to those responsible for hospitality and cleanliness. Through these shared tasks they learn cooperation, generosity, and the joy of contributing values that ripple outward into family and community life for years to come.May the spirit of our founder, Msgr. Herculano Gonsalves, whose compassionate vision always sought to empower the needy, especially women and children, continue to inspire the Handmaids of Christ and all who embrace our charism. As our sisters extend their ministry across Goa and neighbouring states, may the gifts and aspirations of every student take root, flourish, and bloom.Reflection from the Students: Seeds of CreativityThe reflections from the students show how the Centre has planted skills and confidence that grow beyond craft into character and public life through the instrumentality of Sr. Gloria Estebeiro. 1. Skills and Creativity Bloom – by Annissa D’CunhaSt. Alex Tailoring Centre has been a place of learning, creativity, and transformation. Under Sr. Gloria’s careful instruction, we discovered flower making as both an art and a lesson in patience. The classes cultivated our confidence and taught us that dedication and imagination can produce something beautiful. I leave each session with new skills and hope for the future.2. Grateful for a Beautiful Learning Experience – by Monica FernandesI am deeply thankful for the opportunity to learn crepe-paper flower making with Sr. Gloria. Her patience and creativity made every class inspiring. One memorable joy was crafting the flower of my favourite saint, St. Anthony of Padua; I also made St. Joseph’s and Jacinta’s flowers. Each piece reflects not only skill but also the love and faith poured into it. I look forward to creating many more.3. A Rewarding, Creative Journey – Espy FernandesThe annual June flower-making course at St. Alex Convent (Herculano Holistic Centre), Calangute, was a joyful and rewarding experience. Though I had tried simple crafts before, Sr. Gloria taught richer techniques and how to use everyday materials—paper, ribbon, pipe cleaners, fabric, stockings, and organza—creatively and efficiently. She gently corrected us and showed how even scraps become elegant flowers.We made roses, lilies, orchids, tulips, and devotional flowers, and learned to arrange bouquets and centrepieces. A highlight was crafting the flower of my favourite saint, St. Anthony of Padua. I also learnt to create St. Joseph’s flower, Jacinta’s flower, and many other beautiful floral designs. The course sharpened my creativity, patience, and focus, and the camaraderie made every session inspiring. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a peaceful, creative outlet.

Creativity at St. Alex Centre, Calangute